Expert: Norman Solberg - 8/21/2010

Question
Hi!

I am currently using the FAM method for birth control and I would like to know if pregnancy is possible during the luteal phase after ovulation. I am not using any other type of birth control.

Thanks!

Answer
The egg only lives about 1 day, so avoiding intercourse until 3 days after ovulation should be effective.  This is providing that you can identify ovulation well.  Usually by the time your cervical mucous dries up and your temperature has risen, pregnancy is not possible, but give it an extra day or 2 just to be sure.